The world's largest independent provider of helicopter maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services is now formally open for business in Rzeszow, its fourth major location around the globe.

Leaders from Heli-One on Dec. 18, 2012 received the company's Part 145 Maintenance Organization Approval certification from the Polish Civil Aviation Authority. With that certification, Heli-One's Rzeszow facility is now fully ready to provide customers with an extensive range of Base Maintenance services. The Rzeszow team will have its first project in the hangar on the Jan. 7, 2013 - overhaul, modification and painting of a Super Puma AS 332L aircraft for CHC Helicopter - with others to follow soon.

Larry Alexandre, president of Heli-One, recognized the work of its Heli-One team members and the collaboration with regulatory authorities in completing requirements for the Part 145 certification.

"The Heli-One team in Rzeszow worked diligently to meet the Polish CAA requirements, supported by Heli-One colleagues from around the world," said Mr. Alexandre. "Our team of highly skilled and certified mechanics, working with the latest equipment and technology from our newly renovated facility, is set to significantly extend the reach of industry-leading MRO services for which Heli-One is known globally."

More than 35 people have been hired so far for the Heli-One Poland operation, which is adding expertise and access to current and new customers in Central Europe.

"Rzeszow is at the heart of Poland's Aviation Valley, near major Central European operators and is a solid base for strong talent and education resources," he said. "With this operation, we've increased the footprint, capability and reach of our global aircraft maintenance and repair operations. We are building on our existing world-class operations and satisfying the growing demand for helicopter MRO services around the globe."

Heli-One Poland is expected to grow to more than 100 employees within two years, creating new, high-skill jobs and providing extensive development opportunities for local area professionals. The company expects to invest significantly, above $15 million, on building costs, purchasing, training and other expenses related to the operation. That investment is likely to increase based on future business potential in the region.

Heli-One's initial temporary facility in Poland will be replaced by a customized hangar by the end of 2013.

About Heli-One

Heli-One is based in Delta, British Columbia, Canada, and has MRO operations in Delta; Stavanger, Norway; Fort Collins, Colorado.; and now Rzeszow. Heli-One is part of CHC Helicopter, the world's largest helicopter services company, which, in addition to MRO services, provides transportation to offshore oil and gas platforms and ships and search-and-rescue agencies. CHC is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and operates more than 250 aircraft in about 30 countries around the world.